Residents frustrated by Brownstown work

Fresh concerns have been raised over the ongoing £150,000 road maintenance taking place on the Brownstown Road.

Mr Causby has called on Transport NI to re-assess the traffic management system because of the level of disruption caused to residents.

He also claimed that Brownstown Road is to be closed longer than originally planned, but this has been denied by Transport NI.

“Whilst we welcome any efforts to improve the current infrastructure around the Portadown area, it is vital that these projects are carried out with minimum disruption to local residents,” said Mr Causby.

“Residents in the nearby estates have remained patient through a period of time which has limited the access to their homes and estates. I would ask that Transport NI urgently re-assess their traffic management system and undertake a thorough review. Communication between the authorities and local residents has been poor and this has only added to the issue in the area.”

Mr Causby warned that “chaos” will follow if the work continues into September.

“I would put on record my thanks to residents for their patience during the disruption and would hope that both the contractors and Transport NI acknowledge the frustration and goodwill shown by local people,” said Mr Causby. “However, it is imperative that this work is completed before the start of the new school term because the chaos that would follow any more delays would be unacceptable.

“I would ask local motorists who are not residents of the Brownstown Road area to avoid the area and pay heed to the road closure notices during work hours as this will help keep disruption to the works to a minimum. As a community we look forward to the completion of this work and for the new and improved infrastructure in our town.”

Transport NI defended the information provided to residents, pointing out that the scheme was announced in the press on July 20.

A spokesman said, “This announcement included full details of the scheme and warned of the unavoidable diversions required to ensure the safety of road users and pedestrians. The contractor also carried out a letter drop to residents before work began. Reports that the improvement are behind schedule are incorrect. Weather permitting, the scheme is expected to be completed early and ahead of the end of the school holidays. This is despite unexpected work required to repair existing road drainage.

“Local access has been maintained for residents during the scheme. Transport NI recognises that the work involved delivering large scale investment scheme of this type can result in short term inconvenience to the local community and to drivers.”

The Department is confident that road users and resident in the area will quickly realise the long term benefits the scheme will bring.”